The Hilltoppers’ impressive momentum at the onset of the wrestling season is further strengthened by five standout wrestlers securing individual rankings that highlight their exceptional performance:
Ty McGeary (184 lbs.): A celebrated two-time national champion, McGeary impressively dominates his weight class by clinching the top ranking, firmly establishing himself with an unblemished 2-0 record in dual meets during this season.
Logan Davis (125 lbs.): In a remarkable collegiate debut, the freshman athlete makes his mark in the rankings at No. 8, aligning with his flawless 2-0 record as he embarks on his wrestling journey.
Jordan Watters (157 lbs.): The experienced redshirt senior breaks into the rankings for the first time, debuting at No. 12, complementing his perfect 2-0 record and showcasing his veteran skills on the mat.
Alec Cook (165 lbs.): The talented graduate student hailing from Weirton, W.Va., has secured a commendable No. 7 ranking, further solidifying his status with a perfect 2-0 start to the season.
Parker Bentley (285 lbs.): The formidable redshirt sophomore rounds out the impressive group of ranked Hilltoppers at No. 9 in the heavyweight division, showcasing his strength and prowess with an undefeated 2-0 record.
West Liberty has begun the season on a high note, successfully achieving a 2-0 record in their dual meets while also claiming a noteworthy runner-up finish at the competitive Mount Union Invite.
The Hilltoppers are set to return to competitive action on December 7 at the Little State Invite, taking place in Indianapolis, Indiana, where they aim to capitalize on their early successes and continue their ascent in the wrestling ranks.
How does Ty McGeary’s leadership influence the overall team morale and performance this season?
**Interview with Coach Mike Johnson of the West Liberty Hilltoppers Wrestling Team**
**Interviewer:** Coach Johnson, the start of this season has been nothing short of exceptional for the Hilltoppers. With Ty McGeary leading the charge as the top-ranked wrestler in the 184 lbs. category, how important is his leadership for the team as they build momentum?
**Coach Johnson:** Ty’s experience and success as a two-time national champion have a huge impact not just on his performance, but on the younger wrestlers, too. His work ethic and dedication set a standard for the entire team. When you have someone like him at the top, it lifts the confidence of everyone around him.
**Interviewer:** We’ve also seen impressive debuts, particularly from Logan Davis who comes in at No. 8 in the 125 lbs. category. How do you think his performance thus far as a freshman will affect the team moving forward?
**Coach Johnson:** Logan’s quick rise in the rankings is exciting. It’s always a challenge for freshmen to adjust to the collegiate level, but he’s adapted well and his undefeated record speaks volumes. His success adds depth to our lineup and boosts team morale. It also shows that our program can develop new talent quickly.
**Interviewer:** Jordan Watters, another standout, has made his first rankings appearance at No. 12. How significant is it for a redshirt senior like him to achieve this milestone after years of hard work?
**Coach Johnson:** Jordan’s journey is inspiring for our team. It proves that perseverance pays off. Getting ranked for the first time is a testament to his skills and commitment. It also shows our younger athletes that dedication can lead to opportunities, regardless of your starting point.
**Interviewer:** Alec Cook and Parker Bentley have also made their marks, contributing to a strong overall performance from the team. As they prepare for the upcoming Little State Invite, what goals are you setting for them?
**Coach Johnson:** Our goals are straightforward: continue building on our momentum and strive for personal bests at every meet. This Invite is a great opportunity for us to showcase our growth as a team and individually. We want to keep pushing each other to excel.
**Interviewer:** With the team currently holding an undefeated record and expectations rising, what do you think the pressure feels like as they approach this significant meet?
**Coach Johnson:** Pressure can be a double-edged sword. It can overwhelm or it can motivate. I believe our wrestlers are using it as motivation. They understand the expectations, but we focus on each match as it comes. If we wrestle our best and support one another, the results will follow.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, for our readers, what do you think is the critical factor in turning individual rankings into team success? Could we see the Hilltoppers make a run at the postseason?
**Coach Johnson:** Absolutely! The critical factor is teamwork. Rankings are great, but success within the team context is crucial. If our ranked wrestlers can elevate the performance of their teammates, we can achieve great things. With the talent we have, I believe we have the potential to make a deep postseason run.
**Interviewer:** As always, it’s fascinating to hear your insights, Coach. Looking forward to seeing how the Hilltoppers perform.
—
**Debate Question for Readers:** Given the impressive start by the Hilltoppers and particularly by standout wrestlers like Ty McGeary and Logan Davis, do you think that individual rankings can truly translate into a strong team performance, or do you believe that team dynamics and collaboration play a more critical role in achieving success in collegiate wrestling? What are your thoughts?
